Real Madrid is now the betting favourite to lift the trophy, followed by PSG, Bayern Munich and Barcelona. The news came on the day when the Brazilian was told that he will be serving a two-match ban following a red card against Levante on Saturday.

Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro has defended team-mate Gareth Bale after the Welshman was jeered by sections of the Santiago Bernabeu crowd during Wednesday's 3-0 win over APOEL Nicosia in the Champions League.

The European and Spanish champions have drawn their last two La Liga games in his absence and Madrid boss has admitted the Portuguese importance to the squad. It is fair to say he will be itching for the opportunity to start off his season in the Champions league.

Real Madrid have dominated the Champions League in recent years, winning three of the last four competitions, with their Spanish rivals Barcelona and Germany's Bayern Munich the only other winners since Chelsea's triumph.